Meet Alex Mativo: Pioneering Innovation in Emerging Markets

Alex Mativo, born on April 21, 1994, in Nairobi, Kenya, is a trailblazing entrepreneur renowned for his impactful work in transforming e-waste into fashion and enhancing business operations in emerging markets. Mativo's entrepreneurial journey reflects his commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic empowerment.


Early Life and Education

Alex Mativo grew up in Athi River, Kenya, and attended Lenana School in Nairobi. His academic journey later took him to the African Leadership University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Software Engineering from 2015 to 2018. Furthering his leadership skills, Mativo participated in the Queen's Young Leaders Leading Change program at the University of Cambridge between 2016 and 2018.


Career and Achievements

Mativo's entrepreneurial career began in 2013 with the founding of E-LAB, a company dedicated to addressing the detrimental effects of electronic waste in Africa. E-LAB transforms hazardous e-waste into innovative products for the fashion and interior design industries. This initiative has not only sparked a global culture of safe and responsible e-waste disposal but also led to the eradication of 3,000 tons of electronic waste across Africa. Mativo's work with E-LAB earned him the prestigious Queen's Young Leaders Award in 2016 and the title of "Disruption by Design" Upcoming Disruptor of the Year by Up Magazine in 2015.

In 2020, Mativo co-founded Nanasi, an all-in-one platform designed to streamline operations for quick-service restaurants. Nanasi helps businesses unify their sales and payment channels, manage daily operations, and grow using intelligent insights. This venture significantly increased sales efficiency for numerous restaurants, underscoring Mativo's knack for creating practical, tech-driven solutions.

Most recently, in December 2023, Mativo launched Duck, a groundbreaking company providing real-time market data on product performance, competitive landscape, distribution coverage, and customer insights. Duck's mission is to help brands in emerging markets outsmart the competition by offering the real-time data needed to stay ahead of market trends.


Public Speaking and Advocacy

Mativo is a prominent public speaker and advocate for innovation and sustainable development. He has shared his entrepreneurial journey at numerous prestigious platforms, including a TEDx talk at the African Leadership University in 2016 and the One Young World Summit in Bangkok, Thailand, in 2015. His insights have inspired audiences across Africa and beyond, highlighting the importance of embracing design thinking and innovative approaches to solve pressing global issues.


Media Recognition and Awards

Mativo's innovative work has been widely recognized and featured in major international media outlets such as CNN, Al Jazeera, eNCA Africa, and the BBC. His entrepreneurial ventures and advocacy have earned him multiple accolades, including being listed among Forbes 30 Under 30 in April 2024.


Alex Mativo's entrepreneurial journey is a testament to his visionary leadership and commitment to creating sustainable solutions for complex challenges. Through E-LAB, Nanasi, and Duck, Mativo continues to make significant strides in innovation, sustainability, and economic empowerment, positioning himself as a leading figure in the entrepreneurial landscape of emerging markets. His work not only addresses critical environmental and operational issues but also empowers businesses and communities to thrive in an ever-evolving global market.

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